Description and Brand Names

US Brand Name

Epogen

Procrit

Descriptions

Epoetin injection is a man-made version of human erythropoietin (EPO). EPO is produced naturally in the body, mostly by the kidneys. It stimulates the bone marrow to produce red blood cells. If the body does not produce enough EPO, severe anemia can occur. This often occurs in patients whose kidneys are not working properly. Epoetin is used to treat severe anemia in patients with kidney disease.

Epoetin may also be used to prevent or treat anemia that is caused by surgery or medicines that are used for other conditions, such as AIDS or cancer.